The Dangers of a Hot Car

Since 1998, more than 230 children have died after being left in a hot car (sometimes on relatively mild days with only 70 degree temperatures). On a typical summer day, the temperature inside a car (even with the windows rolled down a little) can quickly rise above 120 to 140 degrees. Even on a relatively mild day, the temperature inside a car can get above 100 degrees. At those temperatures, kids are at great risk for heat stroke, which can lead to a high fever, dehydration, seizures, stroke and death. To keep your children safe, follow these tips:

• Never leave your child in a car, especially on a hot, sunny day.
• Always lock your car and secure the keys so that your kids can't get to them.
• Never let your children play in the car by themselves and warn them about the dangers.
• Install a trunk release mechanism, so that they can't get trapped in the trunk.
• When you get home from errands, get your kids out of the car first, and then worry about getting the groceries, etc.
• Make sure that child care providers and day care workers have a plan to make sure that kids aren't left in the provider's car or van.